Ontario Construction News staff writer
Construction on the West Harbour GO Station track has been completed, paving the way for expanded GO train service between Hamilton and Niagara Falls and improved transit connections across the region.
The track upgrade links the previously dead-end West Harbour GO Station to the main Lakeshore West rail line, allowing all GO trains — including weekend and off-peak trips — to stop at the station. The new connection will also support future service to the Confederation GO Station in east Hamilton.
“As we work to expand GO service across the region, the completion of West Harbour Station means faster, more convenient and more frequent GO train options with four times as many trips for commuters travelling between Hamilton and Niagara Falls,” said Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria.
Previously, trains at West Harbour had to reverse in and out of the station. With the new through-track now operational, travel times are expected to improve for St. Catharines and Niagara Falls passengers, offering a more efficient route in and out of Hamilton.
Metrolinx interim president and CEO Michael Lindsay said the upgrades will provide greater flexibility and more choices for riders across the network.
“Soon, all Niagara trains will stop at West Harbour GO Station. This means customers traveling between Niagara and Hamilton to Toronto will have even more trips to choose from,” said Lindsay. “We’re providing more choice for our customers and year-round access to popular destinations between Niagara and Toronto.”
The new track will also enhance connections to Hamilton Street Railway bus services and other local transit, streamlining commutes for residents and visitors in the region.
The Lakeshore West schedule will be adjusted in the coming weeks following completion of final testing on the upgraded track.
“These completed upgrades at West Harbour GO Station will save Niagara commuters more than an hour a week and open the way for additional service as the province moves ahead with the Grimsby GO Station,” said Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West. “We are providing commuters in Niagara with easier access to fast, reliable and affordable public transit.”
The project is part of the province’s broader strategy to expand transit infrastructure, reduce travel times and support economic growth across southern Ontario.
